Winter bike commuting isn't as bad as you might think

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PORTLAND, Ore. -- We're only two days into the new year. How are you doing with your fitness resolutions?

Portland transportation leaders say there's an easy way to stay active and fit. They're encouraging folks to start commuting by bike in 2014. Their Resolve to Ride campaign runs through Jan. 6.

Some folks may be intimidated by a bike commute in January. But experts say there's nothing to worry about.

"It's really not that bad," said Alex Criss, an events promotions manager at River City Bicycles. "We're not the midwest. It's not super hot here. It's not super cold. Most days there's still some time you can get out there and commute and not get drenched."

There is all kinds of gear available to make winter bike commuting easier. But Criss says you don't need to buy it if you don't have the money for it.

"You don't have to," said Criss. "You can go through it, wear what you have, see how it is and then over time pick and choose those small little details that you want to make it more comfortable or better for you in your commuting needs."